UK minimum wage increases significantly in April 2025

Minimum wage rates in the UK will increase starting April 1, 2025. This change will significantly help lower-paid workers, especially those between 18 and 20 years old. The National Living Wage (NLW) will see an increase of 6.7% for those aged 21 and over. This means the NLW will rise to £12.21 per hour, adding about £1,400 to annual earnings for full-time workers. For workers aged 18 to 20, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will increase by 16.3%, bringing it up to £10 per hour. Those aged 16 to 17 and apprentices will earn £7.55 per hour, an increase of 18%. The government believes these changes are a step toward ensuring a genuine living wage for families across the country. Workers do not need to take any action to receive these increases but should check their payslips after April 1 to confirm the correct wages are being applied. Employers will be informed about the new pay rates to ensure compliance with the changes by the start of April.